Funded by: Afeyan Foundation
PI: Hrachya Kocharyan
Researchers: Areg Karapetyan, Ani Paloyan, Adelina Stepanyan
The project focuses on the development of lab-scale enzyme-based bio-batteries designed to deliver stable, high-density electrical power using biodegradable and environmentally friendly materials. Unlike conventional batteries, these systems rely on biological catalysts (enzymes) to drive electrochemical reactions, offering a promising pathway toward sustainable energy technologies.
The work combines electrochemical engineering, materials design, and enzymology to optimize both performance and durability. The core system consists of a bio-cathode (based on multicopper oxidase enzymes) and a functionalized bio-anode (e.g., phenazine-based mediators), assembled on conductive substrates such as carbon paper. The research systematically explores how electrode composition, enzyme loading, immobilization techniques, and environmental conditions (pH, temperature, oxygen levels) affect overall battery performance.
Electrochemical characterization methods such as polarization curves, impedance spectroscopy, and long-term chronoamperometry are examples of techniques used to quantify both power output and operational stability. A key novelty of the project is the focus on cumulative energy output per unit enzyme. In addition, capacitor charge/discharge experiments are conducted to evaluate the ability of these bio-batteries to power small electronic devices, such as wearable or implantable systems.
A second major component of the project is the integration of machine learning-based optimization. Experimental data are used to construct an objective function that captures trade-offs between energy output, material efficiency, and stability. This allows the identification of optimal design configurations and the formulation of generalizable design rules for bio-battery systems.
One of the most important expected results is the demonstration of bio-batteries with significantly higher cumulative energy per enzyme compared to existing designs. This directly addresses one of the main limitations in current literature—poor long-term efficiency and rapid degradation.
Additionally, the project is expected to deliver:
- A reproducible experimental protocol for constructing modular bio-batteries
- Quantitative relationships between electrode architecture and performance
- Identification of optimal operating conditions balancing peak power and stability
- Foundational design rules enabling scaling and future applications
These outcomes are critical for transitioning enzyme bio-batteries from laboratory to practical energy solutions.